DISCLAIMER: THESE PROGRAMS DO NOT PROVIDE EMERGENCY SERVICES. IF YOU EXPERIENCE A MEDICAL OR MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 911.
SPARC is a multi-agency Emergency Medical Service outreach team of Columbus Division of Fire Paramedics and Clinicians from Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging who assist individuals identified through 911 calls and community referrals to address their medical and social needs.
SPARC’s mission is to assess, stabilize, and connect individuals, including older adults, with resources and services to improve their quality of life and health capital. SPARC’s holistic approach is guided by its motto of Compassion, Support, & Connection.
Specialized Program Assessing Resource Connectivity (SPARC) is a partnership between Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) and the Columbus Division of Fire (CFD) to assist people with their health and/or social service needs.
Operating within CFD, the SPARC team consists of COAAA social workers and CFD paramedics. The SPARC program is available to people who are residents of the City of Columbus or reside in Franklin County.
High utilizers of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Medically fragile individuals who need more assistance or care. Isolated and vulnerable older adults needing connected to community resources. Individuals who are homeless and seeking assistance with medical conditions or social service needs. At-risk populations including people with high-risk pregnancies, substance use disorders, and mental health challenges. Individuals with health issues for which they are refusing treatment. Individuals who may want advice on how to proceed because of health or safety concerns. For additional questions or consultation, please contact SPARC at SPARC@columbus.gov.